Thursday, December 19, 2013

5 Basic Tech Security Updates to Safeguard your Business

What safeguards can you implement to protect your business?

Change Default Passwords

One of the most common security mistakes that businesses make
is not changing default passwords for their computers. This problem is largely
ignored, but it can be easily fixed. Always make sure to change all the default
passwords on new computers. If you fail to do this, hackers use default
passwords to access your computers; once they login, they have access to your
whole network.

Update Operating Systems

Manufacturers update their software to make it more secure;
if you ignore system updates, you leave gaping holes in your systems. Hackers
can easily exploit outdated systems. When a patch or an update is released for
your computer, make sure to install it as soon as you can. If a hacker sees
that your systems are updated, they are less likely to target them; they find
an easier system to hack.

Encrypt Customer Transactions

If you sell your product online, you need to make sure that
your customers' data is secure. The best way to do this is to outsource payment
processing to a reputable company; setting up encryption yourself is a long,
expensive and arduous process. When you outsource transactions, you guarantee
that your processing procedure meets the stringent compliance standards that
credit cards require.

Host Your Website On A Secure Server

Saving money by purchasing cheap hosting can be tempting; it
is also a recipe for disaster. If you choose a security minded host like Hivelocity,
you know that your website is safe from prying eyes. Good server companies back
up your data, protect you from hackers and guarantee that your data is safe. If
you opt for cheap hosting, it's like begging hackers to attack your site.

Limit Sensitive Information

Special programs are available that let you detect unusual
activity on your computer systems. These programs monitor communications to
make sure that sensitive information isn't being leaked outside of your
network. When you install this software, your data stays safe and secure.

If you take steps to protect your data, you make it hard for
hackers to crack your systems. Hackers are opportunistic. If you take decent
measures to protect your systems, they are more likely to move on and find an
easier target. A few simple steps can make your business and its sensitive
information more safe and secure.

Modern businesses depend on technology to help lower costs
and increase productivity. Unfortunately, many of these businesses use new
technologies without taking the necessary steps to protect their assets;
unsecured technology is vulnerable to hackers and viruses that can bring a
business to its knees.